Three men with gang links have been arrested in Nelson for a number of charges following a series of police search warrants.
Police said in a statement the progress in the investigation, as part of Operation Cobalt, comes after the police received information from the public.
A 26-year-old man was arrested and faces eight charges including two of aggravated robbery, one of kidnapping, unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of a pistol, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of LSD.
A 22-year-old man faces two charges of aggravated robbery, two of perverting the course of justice, one of kidnapping, unlawful possession of ammunition, and breach of bail.
The pair have been remanded in custody and are due to appear in Nelson District Court on Thursday.
A third man aged 52 has been charged with aggravated robbery, and has been remanded in custody to appear in court on Friday.
Police said two guns including one prohibited firearm were seized.
"This type of offending is not something that we or the wider Nelson community should tolerate or accept, and it is pleasing to hold these offenders to account," Detective Inspector Mark Chenery said.
He said the investigation is still ongoing and police are seeking further people of interest.
Anyone who has information on suspicious and/or potentially criminal activity is urged to get in touch with the police via 105.
